Gaming industry experts have identified the top 10 issues that will shape the U.S. gaming landscape in 2025, with New York City casino licensing, Texas gambling legislation, and iGaming expansion leading the priorities.

The Pennsylvania-based Spectrum Gaming, a non-partisan consultancy that has advised 40 state regulators and major gaming companies, released its annual industry forecast highlighting crucial developments to watch.

New York City Casino Licensing The most significant development will be the allocation of three downstate New York casino licenses, each requiring a $500 million entry fee. MGM Resorts and Genting lead the race with their existing properties (Empire City Casino and Resorts World), while industry giants like Sands, Caesars, Hard Rock, and others compete for the remaining license.

Texas Gambling Legislation Las Vegas Sands continues its push to legalize casinos in Texas, with Dr. Miriam Adelson investing heavily in lobbying efforts. The upcoming biennial legislative session in January will be crucial, though experts anticipate significant opposition. The potential for a combined NBA arena and casino resort in Dallas remains a possibility.

iGaming Expansion The growth of online casino gaming presents both challenges and opportunities. Currently legal in seven states (Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia), the industry faces competition from controversial unregulated sweepstakes casinos. This tension may accelerate traditional iGaming legalization efforts.

Additional Industry Concerns:

• Online sweepstakes casino regulations
• Historical horse racing (HHR) machine expansion
• State oversight of skill gaming terminals
• Sports betting market maturation
• Integration of new gaming technologies
• Regulatory compliance challenges
• Market competition dynamics

The industry expects these issues to significantly impact gaming operations, regulatory frameworks, and market development throughout 2025.

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